Wayne renews child-care contract

Program brings $862,807 to county

By TOM KANE

HONESDALE, PA — Wayne and Susquehanna counties have entered an agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare for 2006-2007 that will bring a total of $1,564,501 for day care services to needy families. Wayne County will receive $862,807.

The funding, which is distributed by Child Care Information Services (CCIS), saw an increase of $187,632 over last year.

The federal government and the state contribute to this program.

Funding recipients call into two categories. The first group is low-income-working families—families of four whose gross income is less than $38,700 a year—and the second group is families that receive cash benefits from the county welfare assistance office and are ending their welfare subsidy and seeking jobs.

“Many-low-income working families need assistance with day care; otherwise, they would not be able to work,” said Betsy Esgro, CCIS director. “The families coming off of welfare and entering the work place can receive this assistance. Many of the families also contribute part of the child care costs.”

The families can use any licensed day care facility, day care center, or even a relative or neighbor provider who has signed up with the program, Esgro said.

Families are eligible for the program until the 13th birthday of their youngest child. “There is no maximum amount imposed on the families,” she said. “As long as they remain income eligible and are working, they can receive the funding until their child or children are 13.”

Consumer education information and materials are also available to help parents with their child care needs. Families can find out if they are eligible and receive a list of qualified day care providers in their area by calling the CCIS at 800/559-6020.